Developmental, Neural, and Behavioural Biology (MSc) University of Göttingen
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- No tuition fees
- Next application deadline
- View details
- Language level required
- English: C1German: None
Programme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MSc
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Full-time / part-time
- Full-time
- Intake
- Winter semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
All programme-specific courses are taught in English. Additionally, students have the option to join university-wide courses offered in German.
Programme description
The English-language MSc programme in "Developmental, Neural and Behavioural Biology" covers the three areas of developmental and cell biology, neurobiology and behavioural biology including in depth specialisation.
The programme is aimed at students who have a particular interest in developmental biological processes, the structure and function of nervous systems or behavioural research. The lecturers are scientists who collaborate with the University of Göttingen, the German Primate Centre and several Max Planck Institutes. A wide variety of topics are taught, ranging from cellular functions to cognitive performance. Previous knowledge in the desired field is required.
Programme structure
The MSc programme in "Developmental, Neural and Behavioural Biology" comprises four semesters. It typically follows a BSc degree in biology/biological sciences and is extremely research-orientated. A total of 120 ECTS credits must be earned as part of this modularised MSc programme. The programme takes place in an active, internationally renowned research environment.
Students acquire basic subject and methodological knowledge by attending core modules that include lectures, seminars and methods courses (first and second semester). Building on the core modules, individually organised laboratory projects are carried out in lab rotations (advanced modules). In addition, university-wide and cross-faculty modules can be taken in order to acquire further job-related key competences. In the fourth semester, students write the Master's thesis as an independent piece of academic work. They work on a current academic topic, which is usually embedded in a third-party funded project.
The MSc degree qualifies students to practice a profession or conduct research, and in particular is a prerequisite for a doctoral thesis and for working in the field of biosciences. There is a fast-track option to the faculty's consecutive PhD programmes.
Excellent English language skills are required and must be demonstrated. Basic knowledge of German is also required.
Mode of study
- Fully on-site
International elements in the curriculum
The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:
- Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)Study at partner universities (Erasmus+, Global Exchange programme) Internship/laboratory rotation/thesis abroad Find more information online: https://uni-goettingen.de/de/677597.html
- Opportunities for students to work abroad
Application and admission
Application period(s)
- 1 January to 15 February for applicants who are not EU citizens and do not hold an EU Bachelor's degree (start of studies in October)
- 1 April to 15 May for applicants who are EU citizens or hold an EU Bachelor's degree (start of studies in October)
Academic admissions requirements
Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biology/Biosciences
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
|
Total: 95 / 120
Reading: 24 / 30
Listening: 22 / 30
Writing: 24 / 30
Speaking: 25 / 30
|
telc English
|
Total: telc English C1
|
PTE Academic
|
Total: 76 / 90
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 7 / 9
|
UNIcert® English
|
Total: UNIcert® III
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
Fees are around 460 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as regional buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 800 to 1,000 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.
Further information on the requirements for non-EU citizens (proof of finances) can be found on the Visa and Residence Permit page of the International Office.
Part-time employment
The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de.
Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations. Information on side jobs: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/653539.html
Some proficiency in German may be indispensable to your job search.
Scholarships and financing information
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Buddy programme
- Support with registration procedures
The International Office provides services for international students.
German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city in the first weeks.
An orientation week for international students provides information about university and city.
Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)
Foyer International: activities for all students
German courses during studies (free of charge)
Support for specific needs
Studying with a disability
The university provides information on studying with a disability here.
Refugee programme
The contact person for refugees is Nandita Isloorkar.
E-mail: international.study@uni-goettingen.deStudying with a family
The University of Göttingen supports the compatibility of academic studies/research/work life, family and private life and aims to organise studies, research and work in a way that is compatible with family and private life.
Information for international students with children
Career advisory services
The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops and online learning modules.
If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.
Accommodation
The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.
Contact
Office of Studies Faculty of Biology and Psychology
- Name
- Bettina Marth
- Address
- 37073 Göttingen